Galgotias University issued a formal apology after backlash over its display at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. A robotic dog at the university’s pavilion, identified online as the Unitree Go2 from China-based Unitree Robotics, drew sharp criticism when a staffer described it as a homegrown achievement.

The press release, dated February 18, 2026, stated the representative was "ill-informed" about the robot’s origins. She provided inaccurate details on camera out of enthusiasm, though unauthorized to speak for the press, according to the university. "We wish to apologise profusely for the confusion created," the statement read. It emphasized "no institutional intent to misrepresent this innovation."

Tensions peaked at Bharat Mandapam, the summit venue. Organizers cut power to the Galgotias stall. Workers then erected barricades around it. A PTI video showed staff citing supervisor orders for the actions. The university said it left "understanding the organisers’ sentiment."

Social media users first flagged the Unitree Go2 model after the event. The robot, priced around $1,600 and widely available online, undercut claims of original development. Galgotias officials distanced themselves from the remarks. They recommitted to "academic integrity, transparency, and responsible representation" of their research.

Summit organizers have stayed silent on the incident. No word has emerged on who ordered the power cut or barricades. The episode unfolded amid India’s push for AI self-reliance, highlighted by the event’s focus on domestic tech advancements.

Galgotias, based in Greater Noida, hosts engineering and tech programs. It participated to showcase student projects. The mishap overshadowed other displays at the three-day summit, attended by policymakers and industry leaders.

The apology aims to quell outrage. Critics online accused the university of inflating credentials to attract students and funding. Enrollment at private institutions like Galgotias relies on perceptions of advanced research.

India’s AI ecosystem faces growing scrutiny over authenticity claims. Government initiatives like IndiaAI seek to boost local innovation. False representations risk eroding trust in such efforts.

University spokespeople did not respond to requests for further comment beyond the release. Summit officials similarly declined immediate interviews.